White or black: which ribbon should you choose for your hockey stick?

When it comes to preparing your stick for a game or practice, choosing hockey tape is a ritual for many players. But one debate has always persisted: should you use white or black tape on your stick? Beyond personal preferences, each color has its strategic advantages . Here's what you need to know to make the best choice!

Black Tape: The Goal Scorers' Secret Weapon

Black tape is often favored by players who want to camouflage the puck . Against a black background, the puck is less visible to the goalie, which can make their reactions slightly more difficult. This small psychological advantage is why many professional goal scorers choose black.

Advantages of black tape:

• Camouflage of the puck against the paddle

• Less dirty over time (less visible dust and marks)

• More aggressive and sober look

Note: Black tape can also leave more rubber residue on the blade, which can slightly change the feel of the paddle if you play for a long time without replacing it.

White tape: for more control and precision

White tape, on the other hand, is often chosen by players who want to better see the puck on their own blade. This can help with quick plays, precise passes, and deflected shots. Some elite defensemen and shooters also prefer white tape to better maintain their puck control.

Advantages of white tape:

• Better visibility of the puck on the pallet

• Promotes accuracy on shots and passes

• Classic and clean look

Please note: White tape gets dirty more quickly, making your stick look more worn over the course of matches.

In summary: White or Black?